Some opinions would argue all one needs for shade is a large stand umbrella. This may be true, but lugging a large umbrella all over a yard to enjoy shade can be tiresome, not to mention it doesn’t always work with the landscape. Trees offer year-round shade and can also benefit one’s home cooling costs as well. Further, trees when grown can offer far more shade than a basic garden or table umbrella. And on a hot day over 100 degrees, that can make a big difference for someone outside.
Fast-Growing Shade Trees
To make up for not planting trees right away when first moving into a location, fast-growing shade trees are the best bet. They branch out quickly and don’t take 15 or 20 years to grow. Most of them can reach reasonable height and spread within 5 years comparably. Further, they tend aggressively grow, filling up empty space and providing a quick landscaping effect.
Types of Trees: Leyland Cypresses
The Cyprus in any form has been a historical shade-producing tree used as early as the ancient home villas of the Romans. The Leyland Cyprus, similar to it’s cousins, shoots straight up in a slender mode, providing both a wind-break and a tall shade cover. This also helps in producing some privacy when living next to someone with a two-story house or similar.
Types of Trees: Red Maples
With a reputation for significant leaf spread, the Red Maple also provides a viable shade option. Maples in general tend to grow big with large leaves. When grouped together these leaves can produce quite a bit of coverage. The fast-growing effect coupled with large coverage fits the bill for yards affected by big stretches of sun.
Types of Trees: Sawtooth Oaks
Sawtooth Oaks can compete with maples in the big tree, coverage category and they grow very quickly as well. Being a hardy tree, oaks can handle a bit more in drier areas as well for those arid locations.
Types of Trees: Weeping Willow
The classic shade producer, the Weeping Willow is a gigantic umbrella of shade when fully-grown. Kids love these trees and the shade factor is almost complete. They grow well with good water source and sun, and can grow significantly large over time. Make sure to provide a large yard area for one of these. Next to a fence or home foundation is probably not a good idea.
Benefits
Again, the primary benefit gained from a fast-growing shade tree is the desired sun blockage. But if parked strategically around a house, you can see an effect on your home’s air condition bill as well. Direct sun contact is always hotter on any surface, and having a tree break up that contact makes it easier on your home to stay cool. Some owners can realize as much as a 30% reduction in cooling costs a year.
